"The whole world is looking at us and we have to show maximum political maturity so that we are able to say with confidence and pride that we are a modern democratic nation cherishing the value of human rights and accommodating all shades of opinion as well aspirations of our people," Benjamin Odoki said.

Fourteen of the accused were granted bail but they refused to leave the court, saying they were afraid of the men.

The Monitor has carried an advertisement asking people to contribute to a legal defence fund for Dr Besigye but Mr Nkutu said he was not aware of how this could break the law.

The paper and its sister radio station have frequently been criticised by the government and earlier this week, there were reports that the authorities were considering closing the paper down over its reports on the military.

On Thursday, the United States called for a fair and speedy trial for Dr Besigye which does not affect the elections.

It said it was "deeply concerned" about his arrest .

Death penalty

Dr Besigye's wife Winnie Banyima, a former MP, told the BBC she thought the charges against her husband were "trumped up" and said he had suffered intimidation since he declared his intention to challenge the president before polls five years ago.

Once Mr Museveni's doctor, Dr Besigye ran against the president in 2001 before fleeing after the elections, saying his life was in danger.

Dr Besigye returned from four years of exile last month to large crowds of cheering supporters.

If found guilty of treason, he and 22 co-accused could face the death penalty.

Dr Besigye has previously denied allegations that he is linked to rebel groups.

He was also charged with rape dating from 1997, allegedly involving the daughter of a friend.